Program Description

Civil engineering is about community service, development, and improvement. It involves
the conception, planning, design, construction, and operation of facilities essential
to modern life: without civil engineering, things like transit systems, offshore structures,
and space satellites would not exist. Civil engineers are problem solvers, meeting
the challenges of pollution, traffic congestion, drinking water and energy needs,
urban redevelopment, and community planning. At the University of Utah, an integral
part of studies in the Civil and Environmental Engineering Department is an emphasis
on environmental engineering. In addition to core courses in engineering, students
also take a range of math, science, and technical courses, as well as general interest
electives. Through their coursework, students of the program learn how to apply physical,
chemical, and biochemical processes to environmental problems, ultimately improving
the quality of life across the globe.

The Student Experience

Students who wish to enrich their studies can complete an undergraduate research project
under the guidance of a faculty member, pursuing an individual interest area and gaining
valuable research and professional skills. If you want to get involved on campus,
be sure to participate in one of the Civil and Environmental Engineering Department’s
many clubs and organizations, such as the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)
or Chi Epsilon (a civil engineering honorary).

Career Opportunities

Most civil engineers work for consulting firms as project designers and planners,
or for state or federal government agencies as civil engineers assisting in the public
works sectors. Consider joining the military or working for manufacturers (such as
pump, pipe, or steel building companies). Other career possibilities include building
control, geotechnical engineering (building solid foundations), and hazardous waste
management and containment. If you enjoyed an undergraduate research experience or
internship, consider pursuing the subject further at the graduate level.